Seeking to change the perception that straw bale[1] buildings are only suitable for rural areas, Beyond Architecture Group Officinamobile (BAG)[2] recently built Rome’s first straw bale home! The energy-efficient space was designed by a group of students and it’s made entirely from local materials.

Located in the Roman capital’s Quadraro[3] neighborhood, the straw bale house was made from a local wood structure, and the walls were filled with straw[4] bale that was previously mixed with crushed bricks and mud. And the plaster they’re using is made from a mix of crushed bricks and local dirt, which will give the house an earthy tone. Although it’s still a work-in-progress, the great thing about straw bale[5] shelters is that are very energy-efficient as its porous properties keeps the interior warm in winter and cool in summer.